Select Local Merchants

From facials to microdermabrasion, the staff behind The MedSpa at Dermatology & Plastic Surgery Associates enhance appearances with a wide spectrum of treatments. Their medspa offerings include chemical peels, laser resurfacing, and beauty injections, which combat dermal imperfections and signs of aging without going under the knife. Licensed aestheticians and techs conduct all medspa treatments, and are able to answer all questions from patients about the treatments, while also giving a pop quiz about content from the waiting room's magazines.

For more than 13 years, Topnotch Tattoos' team of artists has been adorning bodies with vibrant custom artwork. The tattooing trio—composed of Andrew Mullen, Steve Sims, and Nate Bjork—boasts a range of stylistic tendencies, from Steve's mastery of the iconic sailor jerry style to Nate's portraiture of Bela Lugosi and Lon Chaney in their classic horror-film makeup. Resident piercing expert Oscar Martinez has made a study of all types of body modification, including surface-to-surface piercing, scarification, stretching, and permanent hand raising.

From mending battle wounds to performing breast enhancement, Dr. Taek Kim has had a long and storied career. After graduating from medical school in Seoul, South Korea, the young Dr. Kim became a captain in the South Korean armed forces and flew the skies as a flight surgeon for Korean and American troops. He relocated to the United States, where he performed more than 8,000 surgeries and began specializing in cosmetic procedures. Today, as the founder and medical director of Renaissance Cosmetic Laser, Dr. Kim uses his years of experience to help both men and women enhance their appearance with services ranging from water-assisted liposuction to wrinkle-smoothing injections. Light technology also takes a polishing role in his service repertoire via laser spider-vein therapy, IPL photofacials, and procedures to install theater spotlights on a client's favorite features. When Dr. Kim isn't highlighting natural beauty, he channels his impressive resumé and renowned skills as a surgeon into mentoring young physicians as a faculty member of Hinsdale Hospital's residency program.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Leon Forrester Tcheupdjian has not only been in the lipo biz since 1981 but also has authored a textbook on the topic and developed several new surgical tools of the trade. Dr. T., who has dubbed himself "Lipodoc" and is backed up by Liposuction & Cosmetic Surgery Institute's team, specializes in all manner of fat removal and relocation, both by traditional means and with modern laser technology. He also wipes out wrinkles, veins, unwanted hair, and passé tattoos, and he is able to bring his treatments to many, since he speaks five languages, including Armenian, Arabic, and pigeon.

In his own words, surgeon Dr. Wafik Hanna believes firmly that "your face is your calling card." That's why he works with, and not against, his patients' own natural looks. Guided by his philosophy of naturalness, he takes patients' existing bone structure into account when helping them achieve desired complexions and contours. And while many patients opt for surgical services, those preferring non-surgical procedures can opt to rejuvenate their skin with a photofacial, injectables, or thermage, a treatment that tightens the skin. In the 25 years since he opened Hanna Facial Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Hanna has showcased his talents not only in his portfolio, but by sharing his wisdom on the pages of The New York Times.

Under the supervision of double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dhaval M. Patel, the team at Chicago Institute of Plastic Surgery specializes in clinical-grade cosmetic treatments that offer natural-looking results. Surgical procedures range from subtle to more intensive, and the staff also perform an array of med spa treatments that offer surgery-free alternatives. These include laser, peel, and injectable treatments that outfit clients with dewier complexions and smoother skin than a freshly waxed kiwi. And in addition to offering high-quality treatments, the staff also aim to create a serene, warm space with their friendly and uplifting demeanor.